Agent Meetings Are Like Dates

I got into a discussion about agent meetings with my friend Lucas this evening. Lucas is an extremely talented and charming actor who’s a good human being to boot. The topic of how to handle agent meetings came up when I mentioned that I was meeting with a mid-size commercial agency tomorrow. Lucas has great representation; without a TV/Film credit to his name he went to producers for the lead in a network pilot. So, I feel that his opinion on the issue holds some weight.

Lucas had a few great points:

• Treat your meeting as seriously as you would an audition. Prepare for it.
• Come in with a set of questions that you want to ask.
• Ask how many clients the agency represents (they are obligated by law to tell you).
• Specifically: how many clients that look like you?
• If they want to sign you right away, wait. Don’t be too eager.

“Don’t be too eager?” I said. “So it’s like dating.”

“Yeah, I guess it is.” Said Lucas.

“Desperate is unattractive to everyone.” I said.

“Yep. Treat it like a first date. Who are they? Are you a good match? If you like them, you can always go on a second date.”

So there you have it folks, seeking representation is like seeking a relationship. But my question is: How do you get representation drunk and convince it that you are more attractive and charming than you really are?